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Glossary
Assessment Centre
A technique for evaluating job applicants which uses a range of methods to do this. The main feature of an assessment centre is the simulation of some sort of task, e.g. a case study where you have to solve a specific business problem with a group. It may also include psychometric tests, a presentation, an interview as well as other activities. An assessment centre may last from a few hours to 2-3 days.
Competency
An ability, knowledge or skill that allows an individual to be effective in a particular occupation.
Cultural awareness
The understanding and appreciation of cultural difference to improve communication, build relationships and avoid misunderstanding and misinterpretations in words or behaviour.
Curriculum Vitae (usually just referred to as a ‘CV')
A document which outlines your work and educational history. Also occasionally referred to as a resume.
Refers to companies and business (see Organisation) and describes the goods or services they provide. Used interchangeably with Sector.
Internship
A period of structured work experience. In the UK many large organisations offer paid internships in the summer vacation. They often use these as a means of identifying potential graduate recruits for the following summer
Labour Market
Where those who demand labour (employers, industries, companies) come into contact with those who supply labour (employees).
Labour Market Intelligence
Information about a range of subjects, e.g. , occupations , industries , organisations and employees, in the world of work.
Mock Interview
A ‘pretend' or practice interview.
Networking
Use of contacts made in business, social and other situations to create or find opportunities, obtain information or for getting or giving assistance of some kind.
Occupation
A type of job, job title or role, e.g. , careers adviser, engineer, teacher, business analyst, doctor, administrator.
A company, business or other institution within a sector or industry, e.g. , the National Health Service, Shell UK , JP Morgan.
Person Specification
Sets out the skills, experience, personal attributes and qualifications that are needed for a person to do a job effectively. Sometimes called ‘selection criteria'.
Standardised tests used to evaluate memory, aptitude or personality.
Recruitment Agency
A commercial organisation advertising vacancies on behalf of lots of different companies. The companies pay the agency to find them suitable staff.
Refers to companies and business (see Organisation) and describes the goods or services they provide. Used interchangeably with Industry.
Skills Gap
Describes the situation when employees lack the complete range of skills to be fully proficient in their jobs.
Skills Shortage
A shortage of supply in the labour market of the skills, experience and qualifications which employers need.
Small and Medium size Enterprises (SMEs)
Companies which typically have fewer than 250 employees.
Speculative Application
An approach made to an organisation which has not advertised a vacancy in an effort to uncover or create an opportunity.
Transferable Skills
Abilities, knowledge or skills that can be used in a range of occupations .
